Advocacy

An advocate can help you understand your options, make your own decisions and make sure your views are heard.

Advocates are independent. They are there to support you and help you say what is important to you.

If you find it difficult to speak up for yourself, an advocate may be able to speak on your behalf.

When you might need an advocate

You may be able to get support from an advocate if you:

  • us our services and you feel that nobody is listening to you
  • need help understanding information or making decisions
  • think your freedom is being restricted (sometimes called being deprived of your liberty)
  • want support when making a complaint about a health service
  • think you may need care and support from us
  • are being treated under the Mental Health Act

What an advocate can help with

An advocate can:

  • listen to you
  • help you make your own decisions
  • help you get the information you need
  • help you write down what you want to say
  • go to meetings with you if you would like them to
  • speak on your behalf if you want them to

What an advocate cannot do

An advocate will not:

  • tell you what to do
  • give personal advice
  • judge you or your situation
  • make decisions for you

Get an advocate

Advocacy services in Nottinghamshire are provided by POhWER.

Telephone: 0300 4562370
Email: [email protected]

Visit the Your Voice, Your Choice on the POhWER website to find out more about advocacy support.

Further support

There are also other organisations that may be able to help:

Your Notts Directory also lists a number of organisations who provide advocacy services.